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Apnea of prematurity

Richard J Martin1, Christopher G Wilson

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA. rxm6@case.edu

Comprehensive Physiology
|May 31, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Apnea of prematurity stems from immature neural control. This review explores its causes, types, and the physiological basis for treatments, addressing long-term effects of hypoxia.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Physiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Apnea of prematurity arises from immature central neural control.
  • This immaturity affects the integration of afferent input and central rhythm generation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathogenesis of apnea of prematurity.
  • To discuss the interplay of apnea, bradycardia, and desaturation.
  • To summarize therapeutic approaches and long-term consequences.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of the pathogenesis of apnea of prematurity.
  • Analysis of the role of afferent input and central pattern generation.
  • Discussion of the genesis of central, mixed, and obstructive apnea.

Main Results:

  • Immaturity of neural circuitry is central to apnea of prematurity.
  • Afferent input and central pattern generation synergize in apnea emergence.
  • Interplay exists between apnea, bradycardia, and desaturation.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding pathogenesis informs therapeutic strategies for apnea of prematurity.
  • Current treatments are based on physiological principles.
  • Intermittent hypoxic episodes may have long-term consequences.

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